Water in Africa: Niger

Niger, a landlocked country, is almost twice the size of Texas. Niger is divided into the Sahelian and Sudan zones and the Saharan zone. Ninety percent of the population live in the Sahelian and Sudan zones, but the dry, barren Saharan zone covers two thirds of the country. The rainy season, starting in May, lasts four or five months. From November to March, the weather is pleasant, except for the harmattan. This hot, dry wind stirs up blinding sandstorms, making the tasks of daily life difficult.